Lip Gloss

– Lip gloss is one of the most versatile lip products in a woman's makeup collection, as it can be used in so many different ways. With the wide variety of glosses available from top brands, you can easily find something to create every lip look imaginable from a lustrous nude pout to a bold, get-noticed wet effect. drugstore.com makes stocking up on gloss easy and inexpensive with our collection. read more about lip gloss » | resource library for makeup »

Traditional Gloss

The most traditional lip gloss formulas are completely clear and have a wet, sleek consistency. These products are made to enhance the shine of your lips, making them look sleek and luscious. You can wear a clear gloss over nude lips for bold shine or place a thin coat on top of lip pencil or lip stain for a very natural look. When paired with lipstick, gloss makes the lips pop for a very noticeable effect that will make your mouth the star of your makeup look.

Nourishing Formulas

Some lip gloss products double as lip balms, products that moisturize and hydrate the lip tissue. A glossy balm has a creamier consistency than traditional lip gloss and is perfect for times when your lips feel parched due to sun exposure, windburn or chapping due to cold or dry winter weather. Balm glosses typically do not provide as much shine as a traditional gloss. Instead, they leave behind a subtle sheen while nourishing the lips to help them feel softer and smoother.

Shine and Tint in One

Many lip gloss products on the market today contain a tint as well as ingredients for shine. With these products, you can add a touch of color that is lighter than lipstick and shinier than lip stain. Tinted lip glosses can be worn on their own or layered over or under other lip color products to create dimensional effects. Tinted lip glosses come in both warm colors like corals and taupe and cool colors like berries and pinks. For the most flattering effects, choose a shade that complements your skin's undertones.

SPF Protection Rolled On

When you're going to spend time outdoors, you need to protect your lips from the damaging effects of ultraviolet energy, which can speed up the formation of wrinkles in the lip area and contribute to skin cancer. Lip gloss products with SPF help to reflect or absorb ultraviolet and are perfect for use on days when you'll be outdoors. Apply your SPF lip gloss frequently to keep its sun protection benefits going strong.

Types of Formulas

When you're shopping for traditional and tinted glosses, you'll find many different types of formulas available. Some products have a liquid-like consistency and are applied with special sponge applicators that come with the products. These formulas glide on wet and may feel sticky until they dry, but they often provide the most shine. Other lip gloss products come in squeeze tubes that you can run across your lips or apply with your fingertips, and you'll also find stick products that are similar to lipstick in the collection here at drugstore.com.